Multiple Starbucks locations in Massachusetts are set to close after the CEO of the coffee chain said it would be closing underperforming stores nationwide.
“Each year, we open and close coffeehouses for a variety of reasons, from financial performance to lease expirations,” CEO Brian Niccol said in a statement. “This is a more significant action that we understand will impact partners and customers.”
Starbucks said it will try to transfer affected employees to nearby locations or offer severance packages.
“Golden Teapot” Starbucks closing
Among those that will be closing in the Boston area: The Starbucks that sits under the famous Golden Teapot near Boston’s Government Center.
“We’ve made the incredibly difficult decision to close this Starbucks location by the end of the week,” a sign on the door read. “We hope you’ll visit us at a nearby Starbucks where we’d be honored to continue sharing moments with you.”
“Tourists come by here all of the time, everyone’s always looking at the tea kettle,” said customer Rachel Crofut. “So, it’s like a great spot for them. I’m really bummed for the employees, in particular. They’re fantastic.”
Starbucks has not published an official list of stores that are closing. But customers have seen signs at locations that are shuttering, and operating hours posted on the Starbucks website shows that some stores will not be open after Saturday.Â
Harvard Square Starbucks closing
Taped on the front door of Harvard Square’s Starbucks is a sign saying the store is closing. Off-camera, shocked employees said they were only informed of the changes the day before.
“Our initial reaction was a bit surprised that this store is closing down because I thought it was doing pretty well and there were a lot of people coming in,” said David, a customer at the Harvard Square Starbucks. “Now that the store is closing down, I guess I’ll have to find a good coffee place.”
Starbucks closing list
Other Starbucks that appear to be closing include:
540 Commonwealth Ave (Kenmore Square), Boston
1660-1670 Soldiers Field Road, Boston
192 Tremont St., Boston
30 Rowes Wharf, Boston
11 West Broadway St., South Boston
1948 Beacon St. (Cleveland Circle) Brighton
850 River St., Hyde Park
874 Commonwealth Ave, Brookline
1 JFK St. (Harvard Square), Cambridge
1662 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge
11 First St., Cambridge
661 Boston Post Road East, Marlboro
177 College Ave., Medford
333 Worcester St., Natick
474 Woodward St., (Waban) Newton
260 Elm St. (Davis Square), Somerville
68 Central St., Wellesley
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